The Winter of Our Discontent

by

William R. Colagrande, MS

 

          Winter gloom, wintertime blues and Seasonal Affective Disorder are all different names for what is essentially the same phenomenon, a marked tendency in some people to experience depression-like symptoms during the winter months. Since we live in the higher latitudes, we see much less of the sun during the shorter days of winter and what we do see of it often appears weak or watery. This has a tendency, whether directly or indirectly, to lead to an increase of symptoms such as loneliness, lethargy, loss of interest in activities, disturbed sleep and increased cravings for carbohydrates, particularly alcohol.

 

          The diagnosis of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) hit the popular scene about ten years ago. The condition, which affects between 2-10% of the population, is said to relate decreased levels of sunlight with increased levels of the hormone melatonin, which acts to slow down the metabolism and is associated with the above listed symptoms. The condition, which is not very well understood, is treated by exposure to either very bright light or full spectrum light, depending upon who you ask. While there are no shortage of appliances and special light bulbs for sale that claim to treat SAD, reliable clinical studies and an accepted course of treatment are in short supply. Best check with your family physician if you suspect you may be suffering from SAD.

 

          Common folk remedies for mild or seasonally related depression include SAM-e, a dietary supplement said to be effective in reducing symptoms of depression and St. John’s wort, an herb credited with similar properties. Both are available at your local health food store and both have their supporters and detractors. Again, I recommend consulting with you physician prior entering into either treatment regimen.

 

          The old joke goes: Q: Doctor, what can you recommend to cure my insomnia? A: Get plenty of sleep. The situation with winter gloom is similar. If you or someone you know tends to feel depressed during the winter it is important to realize and accept that fact and take active steps to prevent or limit the worst of the symptoms. Getting exercise is a good example. The important thing about getting exercise is that you don’t have to feel like doing it in order to do it. You just have to do it. (While I am normally a go with the flow type of guy, but there are circumstances where the flow is not coming from the best part of yourself. This is the time to push yourself a little.) You’ll feel more energy, build and tone your muscles, get a little cardio workout and even lose a few of the pounds you put on over the holidays. Outside, especially on brighter days, inside at the gym or on your stationary bicycle (you know, that thing sitting in the laundry room that you hang your clothes on after they come out of the dryer) will all serve. Seeing as how that stationary bike is so boring, perhaps you can spend that thirty minutes planning your garden, a summer vacation or how you will attack the fish once trout season rolls around.

 

          The most important thing is that you take the offensive in aggressively confronting these symptoms; don’t let them catch you back on your heels. Some days may be worse that others, but maintain a positive attitude and focus on every healthy step you take and you’ll feel better in no time.

 

 

 

10 tips handling Winter Gloom

 

 

1.     Enroll for an adult education course.

 

2.     Cook some thick stews or soups to eat after a brisk Sunday afternoon walk; fill the house with wonderful warm, nurturing smells.

 

3.     See if you can get into a gym or motel that has an indoor pool or sauna for some exercise and relaxation in the warmth.

 

4.     Take up a new indoor hobby like stamp collecting, building model ships or crocheting.

 

5.     Get involved with living things, like planting seeds, forcing plant bulbs or getting some tropical fish, goldfish or a parakeet.

 

6.     Trace your family tree or begin writing your autobiography.

 

7.     Volunteer to give some of your time and energy to the less fortunate.

 

8.     Join or start a book reading club. Check with your local library.

 

9.     Take up ice fishing, ice skating, cross country or downhill skiing.

 

10.  Take day trips with your kids to museums and places of interest that you don’t get to during the summer.

 

 

© The Institute for Human Development

2005

www.i4hd.com

 

            I’m always interested in hearing your comments and feedback on my essays. You can send them to be by e-mailing bill@i4hd.com